ARCHIVED: About MP3 files

MP3, short for MPEG Audio Layer 3, is a digital audio compression
technique that compresses an audio file (such as CDA, WAV, or AU) to
about one-fifth of its original size. For example, this technique
would compress a 30MB WAV file down to a 6MB MP3 file. You can
compress even further to get the file down to 4.5MB; however, the
quality of the audio decreases as the file is further compressed. For
technical information about MP3 technology, including a glossary of
related terms and MP3-related downloads, see the MP3 Converter website.

While the MP3 file format is not illegal, many MP3 files available
through file sharing applications such as KaZaA, BearShare, and
Morpheus are illegal copies being distributed by users who do not have
permission to share them. When you download a copy of one of these
illegally distributed files to your own computer, even if you download
just one song, you are committing an illegal action. In addition,
purchasing a music CD generally does not give you the right to
distribute or share the songs on it.

While Indiana University does not actively search for instances of
copyright violation, investigations into degradation of service and
network problems, as well as routine security administration, can
expose violations. In such cases, the university is obligated to
investigate, just as it is for complaints of illegal activities or
inappropriate use taking place on the IU network. Copyright owners do
actively search for copyright infringements of their works using the
procedures outlined in the Digital Millennium Copyright Act
(DMCA). When IU receives such a complaint or discovers a violation via
other means, the university is legally required to remove the
offending material from the IU network. For more about the procedure
regarding copyright violations that involve the IU network, see Copyright
Infringement Incident Resolution.

In addition to sending complaints to IU, copyright owners may also
take direct legal action against alleged infringers, and subpoena the
university for information about people sharing files. The No
Electronic Theft (NET) Act provides for serious criminal
penalties, including a fine of up to $250,000 and a potential jail
sentence. Lack of knowledge about copyright infringement laws will not
excuse you from legal consequences, or from action by the
university. It is your responsibility to be aware of the legality of
your actions. For more, see How
can I protect myself?